First published 2011
Steven Creed abandons his big-city law practice when he becomes guardian to five-year-old Matt, an orphaned boy who needs a home. They settle on a rundown ranch near Stone Creek, Arizona, close to Steven's McKettrick relatives. Steven throws himself into renovating the old house and barn while learning to care for Matt. The work changes him in ways he never expected. When Steven agrees to defend a local teenager without payment, he faces off against county prosecutor Melissa O'Ballivan in court. She follows every rule and fights hard for her cases. Steven finds himself drawn to her despite their professional conflict. Matt struggles with his grief while adjusting to his new life. A rescued dog joins their small family. Melissa guards her heart carefully, convinced no man would truly want her. Steven must learn what it means to build a real home with the people who matter most.
Genres: romance, family-life, contemporary-romance, legal-thriller
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Stone Creek, Arizona
Period: contemporary
271 pages · ebook · HQN Books